Hippopotamyrus pictus
Hippopotamyrus pictus
Hippopotamyrus pictus, the painted elephantnose, is a small freshwater electric fish native to West African rivers. It grows to about 30.5 cm and is more of a scientific curiosity than a sport target, but can be caught with ultra‑light tackle.
Basic Information
Family
Mormyridae
Max Size
30.5 cm
Habitat
freshwater
Climate
tropical
Best Season
Year‑round in tropical climates; peak activity during the rainy season (May‑October) when water levels rise
Best Time
Dawn, dusk and night when the fish are most active
Distribution
No distribution map available
Fishing Tips for Hippopotamyrus pictus
- Use a light spinning rod with a 2‑4 lb line to avoid spooking the fish
- Present tiny natural baits such as live worms or mosquito larvae close to submerged vegetation
- Cast near the edges of slow‑moving water and allow the bait to drift slowly
- Handle the fish gently; its delicate body can be damaged by rough hooks
Top Fishing Locations for Hippopotamyrus pictus
Niger River (Bamako Stretch)
MaliThe lower Niger near Bamako hosts abundant populations of Hippopotamyrus pictus in its turbid waters, making it a prime target for freshwater anglers.
Best: May-October
Volta River (Akosombo Dam)
GhanaThe backwaters of the Akosombo Dam provide deep, slow‑flowing habitats where Hippopotamyrus pictus congregate during the rainy season.
Best: June-September
Ogooué River (Lambaréné Section)
GabonClear, forest‑lined stretches of the Ogooué near Lambaréné are known for dense schools of the species, attracting specialist anglers.
Best: April-October
Congo River (Kinshasa Basin)
Democratic Republic of the CongoThe wide basin around Kinshasa offers varied micro‑habitats; during high water the fish move into shallow floodplains, increasing catch rates.
Best: May-September
Niger River (Niamey Region)
NigerIn the Niamey stretch the river’s sandy banks and oxbow lakes create ideal feeding grounds for Hippopotamyrus pictus.
Best: June-October
Lake Kainji (Kainji Reservoir)
NigeriaThe man‑made lake formed by Kainji Dam supports a thriving population, especially in the river‑inlet zones where the fish hunt for insects.
Best: July-December
Market Prices
Recommended Fishing Equipment for Hippopotamyrus pictus
Recommended Equipment
Best bait: Live worms, small insects, mosquito larvae